Penzance set to welcome Tour of Britain
A weekend of activities and celebration is planned on 5 & 6 September as Penzance hosts the start of the UK’s largest free sporting event.
Stephen Rushworth, Cabinet Member overseeing the Tour of Britain, said: “This is just what we all need after those long months of lockdown – a celebration of community, outdoor activity, and a sport that had us on the edge of our seats in the Olympics. Penzance knows how to party, and I’m sure it will impress the world with its warm welcome and positivity.”
Penzance is rolling out the red carpet to competitors in the country’s largest free spectator sporting event – among them cycling superstar Mark Cavendish – as the Tour of Britain cycle race’s Grand Départ takes place from the Promenade at 11.00 am on Sunday 5 September.
Before and after there will also be a range of events and entertainments, including the Golowan fireworks, BMX and skate displays, an Event Village with local food, drink and crafts, and Criterium bike races for all ages and abilities.
And to get a great sporting weekend underway the Cornish Pirates take on the Royal Navy in their opening pre-season home rugby match.
Jim McKenna, Cornwall Councillor for Penzance Promenade and Penzance Town Councillor, said: “How great to have such a spectacle to enjoy just before pupils return to school and autumn begins. This has been an unusual and testing summer season, and we all deserve to wave it goodbye in style.”
Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Councillor for Penzance East, added: “I am delighted to welcome the start of the Tour to Penzance. Delayed for a year, it will be a long-awaited boost to our spirits and our economy. I hope everyone enjoys it.”
Penzance Mayor Jonathan How said: “Here we can show off our town to visitors, to these top competitors, and to the world’s media. Let’s give everyone a memorable weekend and a cheer that echoes all across Cornwall.”
Among the weekend’s highlights:
Friday 3 September
• Rugby, Cornish Pirates v Royal Navy, Mennaye Field Penzance, kick off 19.30. Tickets here
Saturday 4 September
• Penzance Criterium Cycle Races and Event Village on Western Prom Avenue from 00 to 17.00 / Cycle races for all ages and abilities throughout the day from 9.00 to last race at 16.30, Fun Bike Race – Come along in fancy dress or just take part in the race at 14.00 (all ages and abilities welcome) / Golowan Fireworks in Penzance Harbour at 21.00 – Come along and enjoy the display
Sunday 5 September
• Tour of Britain Grand Départ and Event Village on Western Prom Avenue from 9.00 to 17.00 / Cycle tour arrives, 00 Tour of Britain Grand Départ / BMX and Skate displays and workshops 11.30 to 16.00 / Big screen on the Prom – watch the race go through 111 miles of Cornwall / Local food and drinks stalls, Artisan Craft Market, Cycling and other Information stalls – Showcasing how to look after your bike, and other activities.
PLEASE NOTE: THERE WILL BE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND PARKING RESTRICTIONS IN PENZANCE FOR THE TOUR OF BRITAIN
For traffic heading towards Penzance we recommend using the extra parking facility at Marazion (follow signs from the A30), from where you can either walk or cycle on the level Coast Path to and from Penzance (2.5 miles) or use bus services. There will also be an exhibit on electric bikes.
The town’s roads and parking are likely to be congested, so we strongly advise not driving into Penzance.
For the safety of spectators and competitors, parts of the town will have temporary Clearways (road open to traffic, but no stopping, no parking) over the weekend of the 3rd – 5th September, particularly on Alexandra Road, Western Promenade and the streets in this area.
For more specific information on parking and traffic management please go to www.lovepenzance.co.uk/tob
There will be a rolling road closure keeping pace with the racers as they progress through Penzance and then on through Cornwall. It will delay traffic on the route, and on adjoining junctions, only for around 30 to 40 minutes.
Pedestrian access to homes and businesses will be maintained at all times, but vehicle access will be restricted on some roads over the 3rd, 4th and 5th September. There is more information at Cornwall Tour of Britain Route and www.lovepenzance.co.uk/tob